Apple likened itself to an artist protecting its creations yesterday as the technology giant accused Samsung of copying the design of the iPhone.

Lawyers for both companies gave their opening arguments at the start of what may be the biggest corporate courtroom battle of the year.

Apple has accused its rival of copying designs and infringing patents and is seeking $2.5 billion (£1.6 billion) in damages. Samsung has countered with its own lawsuit, in which it accuses Apple of infringing patents and demands billions of dollars in licence revenue.

Harold McElhinny, Apple’s lawyer, opened his argument by showing the court